Meet Our Dignity & Respect Champions 2015

2015

Elisa Buse, student, College of Chiropractic

A fellow student nominated Elisa and said, in summary, "Elisa Buse is the type of ally that anyone would appreciate...She has formed a new university club whose entire purpose is to further chiropractic doctors' ability to serve a global population with distinctly different cultural competencies...She is powerful...I am proud to call her colleague, and I know that her contribution to the university community is centered in service and compassion." In December 2015, Buse led a motivating discussion about racism in our community, focusing on her attendance and service at the Minneapolis 4th Precinct Occupation and the purpose of Black Lives Matter. Buse is one of the first to hold such a discussion on campus and we hope to hold more.

Beau Foshee, student, College of Chiropractic

A fellow student nominated Foshee for this honor, "Beau is an exemplary advocate for underrepresented individuals and viewpoints on campus and a fine and desperately needed addition to our campus. He is intrinsically involved in all levels of participation at the University and in the community. I cannot think of a more worthy student for this award." Foshee serves as the 2015-2016 Student Senate President.

Meet Our Dignity & Respect Champions 2014

2014

Michael Romanksi, student, College of Chiropractic

In the words of one of Northwestern's faculty members, "Michael made an appointment to come by my office to discuss a remark I had made in class. He did so in a very respectful manner. He was articulate and the tone he struck was just perfect for me not to feel unduly defensive, but still be accountable for my actions. I know it's not always easy for students to meet their professors on an equal footing. I appreciate Michael's commitment to seeking justice even if it might have been uncomfortable for him." Romanski continues to serve in this capacity as the president of the Gender & Sexuality Alliance.

Kathy Allen, former associate dean of academic services, Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Program

Kathy Allen worked with a very diverse group of faculty members and students and shows the utmost respect for all people. While at Northwestern she honored, and continues to honor, the inherent dignity and value of each person. She went beyond tolerance - she showed acceptance all aspects of diversity and advocates for a fair, warm and welcoming university environment for all people.

Students felt comfortable and supported under her leadership, regardless of who they are or from where they come. Allen and the Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine program were the first to understand the need and create changes to support Northwestern's LGBT students. She truly supported the University's efforts toward creating a more inclusive environment.

Meet Our Dignity & Respect Champions 2013

2013

Narate (Judie) Keys, alum, Undergraduate Health Sciences Program

Narate (Judie) Keys is a working toward a bachelor of science in human biology and, eventually, a doctor of chiropractic. She is a published poet and has written and given readings locally on subjects surrounding her personal history as a Cambodian-American, moving from a refugee camp in Thailand to citizenship in the United States. She works with the city of Eagan promoting and planning such programs as "poetry jams."

Keys is a hard-working and an optimistic person. She models a drive to integrate into her new country, while continuing to value her cultural background. She actively promotes poetry and the dignity of people from all cultures.

Kimberly Christensen, alum, Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Program

Kim Christensen is a vibrant and energetic champion for dignity and respect, and served in such a capacity at Northwestern Health Sciences University. In her short time here, she awakened the Northwestern Open Doors student club which encourages a community of inclusiveness and support for GLBT people and created the Gender & Sexuality Alliance, which continues to grow and serve Northwestern today.

Christensen also assisted Dr. Alejandra Dashe with organizing Safe Space training, which can benefit all members of the University community. Her courage and dedication to promoting a safe and supportive environment within the University is inspiring. Her continued dedication will lead to higher quality education and patient services.

Deborah Hogenson, former director, Human Resources

While at Northwestern, Deborah Hogenson treated everyone on campus with dignity and respect. She sought justice and challenges others to consider the way that their actions impacted others. As a behind-the-scenes kind of person, Hogenson had a great positive influence on campus. We would not be the welcoming university we are today without her!

Hogenson's goal at Northwestern was to improve the awareness and acceptance of diversity, inclusion, equity and justice at Northwestern and in health care in general. She diligently worked on bringing diversity training to Northwestern to teach the Northwestern community to make this happen. She also sent key Northwestern representatives to diversity conferences to keep our knowledge fresh and current.